Monday, November 22, 2010

Lots of things a good writer needs

Picking up from my last post, I asked my writing group to come up with the things a good writer needs. Thanks to Jackie, Malcolm, Warren, Steven, Jade, Steve, Ben, and Matt for the suggestions below (hope I haven't forgotten anyone!)

In no particular order, a good writer needs:

Mentor(s)ObjectivityA desire for continuous improvementAn audienceRewardsSomething to write onJudgementProfessionalismResilienceThe ability to adaptLuckJoy in WritingBasic composition skillsTalentCraftsmanshipPracticePassionDriveObsession/Inner necessitySelf-beliefChutzpahHonest and reliable feedbackAn ability to listen to feedbackA comfortable emotional state for their writingLots of ideasOpen-mindednessAccess to the industrySocial skillsRoutine/disciplineThe ability to know when to quit.